A nurse is interviewing a woman in the emergency department about injuries the nurse thinks might have been caused by domestic violence. The woman seems hesitant to discuss her injuries
Which action by the nurse would most likely result in improved communication?
a. Ask the woman why she does not want to discuss the injuries.
b. Close the door and assure the woman of confidentiality.
c. Maintain eye contact while jotting down only brief notes.
d. Sit close, lean in to the woman, and use touch liberally.
B
Being in a busy location may make the woman fear being overheard, and assurances of confidentiality will encourage her to talk about this sensitive subject.
"Why" questions tend to place people on the defensive and are seen as a barrier to effective communication.
Maintaining eye contact, if culturally appropriate, is a good idea, but is probably not enough to get this woman to elaborate on her injuries. Writing only brief notes is not a good idea for complete documentation.
Sitting close may violate this patient's personal space. Although leaning in conveys interest, touch should be used judiciously.
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